UMMS Affiliation

Department of Anesthesiology

Date

3-24-2012

Document Type

Poster

Medical Subject Headings

Anesthesia, General; Delayed Emergence from Anesthesia; Myxedema

Disciplines

Anesthesiology

Abstract

The incidence of perioperative morbidity associated with varying degrees of untreated thyroid disease is unknown, however major complications have been reported including severe hypotension or cardiac arrest, extreme sensitivity to opioids and anesthetics with prolonged unconsciousness, and myxedema coma. Myxedema coma is a rare and life-threatening illness the outcome of which has not been robustly studied in large numbers, partly due to its low incidence. This case illustrates the differential diagnosis of delayed emergence from general anesthesia and the value of a complete history and physical exam. Although delayed emergence from general anesthesia is not uncommon, recognizing the cause and instituting timely treatment is imperative in conditions where delayed therapy can increase morbidity and mortality.

Comments

Poster presentation at the New England Anesthesia Resident Conference, held on March 24, 2012 in Burlington, VT.

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